False Bomb Threat at Patriarch Ilia II's Funeral: Minor Detained
By Messenger Staff
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
The State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) reported on March 23 that a minor has been charged for issuing a false terrorist threat during the funeral of the late Patriarch Ilia II. The incident took place on March 22 at Tbilisi's Holy Trinity Cathedral as the funeral service concluded and a procession began toward Sioni Cathedral.
According to the agency, two anonymous calls reached the Interior Ministry at approximately 14:30. During these calls, the suspect claimed to be in the vicinity with a firearm and alleged that explosives had been planted on the cathedral grounds. The caller demanded an evacuation within 20 minutes and threatened an explosion if the area was not cleared.
The cathedral was exceptionally crowded at the time because thousands of mourners had gathered to pay their respects to the late Patriarch. High-profile attendees inside the building included Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, along with various international delegations and senior ministers.
The SSSG stated that the caller attempted to mask their identity by using specialized software to alter their voice, utilizing a foreign virtual phone number, and hiding their IP address. Despite these efforts, investigators identified the minor that same evening. Authorities did not disclose the exact location of the arrest, but they conducted investigative actions, including seizing multiple mobile phones and laptops.
The minor has reportedly admitted to the crime and faces a potential prison sentence of three to six years for making a false terrorism alert. In a statement to the Imedi TV channel, the SSSG later clarified that the intensive security measures already in place at the cathedral ensured the threat could not have been carried out.
